in a more subtle way

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "in a more subtle way" is correct and can be used in written English.
It is typically used to describe something that is done or communicated with delicacy or sublety, rather than being direct or overt. Example: "The speaker presented his argument in a more subtle way, using persuasive language and subtle gestures to sway the audience."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

36 human-written examples

But Molina makes an even bigger difference in a more subtle way.

The New York Times - Sports

The new Google Maps uses cards in a more subtle way.

The New Yorker

Andrey, I know, is working on getting around this in a more subtle way.

The New Yorker

The system's prosperous winners also get dehumanized and debased, albeit in a more subtle way.

The New Yorker

In high school, she weighed 150 pounds, and the ribbing continued, although in a more subtle way.

The New York Times

But his impact will be felt – is perhaps already being felt – in a more subtle way too.

The Guardian - Opinion

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

21 human-written examples

Green is blue's cooler, better-looking-but-in-a-more-subtle-unconventional-way cousin.

Huffington Post

It is so awesome because it approaches gender in a much more subtle way than an American show would.

Huffington Post

But the French-American artist's work has evolved away from the overtly political, and the works in his latest solo show find de Balincourt tackling Americana in a gentler, more subtle way.

Vice

The presence of the two fatty conduits may also contribute to a mechanism by which sound pressure performs work on the TPC in a slightly more subtle way.

Plosone

The relationship became public in a rather more subtle way than is likely today.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "in a more subtle way" when you want to emphasize a less direct or obvious approach. This is particularly effective when contrasting it with a more forceful or explicit method.

Common error

Avoid using "in a more subtle way" too frequently in your writing. Overuse can make your writing sound repetitive and weaken the impact of your message. Consider alternatives such as "discreetly", "delicately", or "nuancedly" to add variety.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "in a more subtle way" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb or clause to describe how an action is performed. As Ludwig AI confirms, it indicates that something is done with greater delicacy or indirectness. The examples in Ludwig showcase its use in diverse contexts, from baseball strategy to political commentary.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Encyclopedias

6%

Academia

6%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "in a more subtle way" is a versatile adverbial phrase used to describe actions performed with greater delicacy or indirectness. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and commonly used. Its frequency across various contexts, particularly in news, science, and general writing, underscores its utility in conveying nuance and discretion. When using this phrase, remember to consider the specific context and avoid overuse, opting for synonyms like "discreetly" or "delicately" to maintain variety and impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

With more subtlety

Is a direct synonym, focusing on indirectness.

More discreetly

Stresses the privacy and confidentiality maintained during the action.

More delicately

Highlights care and precision in execution.

In a less obvious manner

Focuses on reducing the visibility or detectability of an action or method.

In a more nuanced fashion

Highlights the complexity and attention to detail in the approach.

In an understated manner

Focuses on simplicity and a lack of exaggeration.

With greater finesse

Highlights the skill and elegance employed in performing an action.

With a lighter touch

Emphasizes sensitivity and avoidance of heavy-handedness.

In a gentler fashion

Emphasizes the mildness and lack of harshness in the approach.

With less fanfare

Indicates a reduction in publicity or ostentation.

FAQs

How can I use "in a more subtle way" in a sentence?

The phrase "in a more subtle way" is used to describe actions or methods that are less direct or obvious. For example, "She hinted at her dissatisfaction "in a more subtle way", rather than complaining directly."

What phrases are similar to "in a more subtle way"?

Similar phrases include "more discreetly", "more delicately", or "with greater finesse". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

When is it appropriate to use "in a more subtle way"?

It's appropriate to use "in a more subtle way" when you want to emphasize a less direct or obvious approach compared to a more forceful or explicit method. It's useful in situations where tact or discretion is important.

What's the difference between "in a subtle way" and "in a more subtle way"?

"In a subtle way" simply indicates an indirect approach. "In a more subtle way" suggests a comparison, implying that the current approach is less direct than another possible approach.